Basic avian pulmonary design and flow-through ventilation in non-avian theropod dinosaurs
Article Abstract:
Evidence for cervical and abdominal air-sac systems in non-avian theropods, along with thoracic skeletal prerequisites of an avian-style aspiration pump is reported on the basis of a comparative analysis of region-specific pneumaticity with extant birds. The early acquisition of this system among theropods is demonstrated by examination of an exceptional new specimen of Majungatholus atopus, documenting these features in a taxon only distantly related to birds.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 2005
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A Mesozoic gliding mammal from northeastern China
Article Abstract:
A new Mesozoic mammal from Inner Mongolia, China, that has represented a previously unknown group characterized by a highly specialized insectivorous dentition and a sizable patagium for gliding flight is reported. The discovery of this mammal has extended the earliest record of gliding flight for mammals to at least 70 million years earlier in geological history, showing that early mammals are diverse in their locomotor strategies and lifestyles.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 2006
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Large Mesozoic mammals fed on young dinosaurs
Article Abstract:
A new species of a Mesozoic mammal, represented by a skeleton with most of the skull and postcranium preserved in articulation, is reported. The discoveries suggest that Mesozoic mammals occupied diverse niches and that some large mammals probably competed with dinosaurs for food and territory. It has also been discovered that some triconodont mammals were carnivorous and fed on small vertebrates, including young dinosaurs.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 2005
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